There’s an old phrase in football circles that goes, “Defense wins championships.”

While it may seem a bit cliché, it was proven true Friday after Class 1A No. 6 Maplesville beat No. 7 Keith 55-7.

Nowhere was it more apparent than in senior Cam Andrews’ performance, leading the team with 14 tackles and helping the Red Devils capture the Class 1A, Region 3 championship.

“He had a big week,” said coach Brent Hubbert. “[He led] a defense that stopped an offense that was averaging 40 points a game.”

Hubbert said that Andrews’ play on the field helps elevate the defense and has set the tone for the Devils all year.

“He’s our defensive leader,” he said. “He calls the shots on the field. He’s our coach on the field.”

Andrews’ leadership on the defensive side of the ball has made an impact on the stat sheets; Maplesville’s defense is allowing on average just 8.6 points per game, and after the last game, his tackle total was up to 100 for the season. He also has four sacks.

Andrews’ leadership on the defensive side of the ball has made an impact on the stat sheets; Maplesville’s defense is allowing an average of just 8.6 points per game.

With the region championship now secured, the Devils have only a rivalry game with Jemison on Friday between them and the first round of the playoffs. Hubbert said the key is to not look too far ahead, and not put too much stock into rankings.

“We’re not too worried about rankings,” he said. “It was a great effort by our kids, and we’re extremely proud [of them].”